New products: Measure the wind

This roundup takes a look at the practical and sometimes quirky aspects of tech products.

METER MEASURES WIND

Just how windy is it outside? The Wind Meter, a handy anemometer that connects to your phone, can tell you the speed and direction of the wind. The WeatherFlow device also can measure gusts, calculate the average wind speed and measure wind speeds ranging from 2 miles per hour to 125 miles per hour. Here's how it works: Download the included app, plug the device into your phone and hold it up high so that it's facing into the wind. Your phone will then record the speed, direction and location. Measurements can be provided in meters per second, miles per hour, kilometers per hour, knots and the Beaufort scale. Info can then be shared online via its app and other social media. Compact enough to tuck into a pocket, the device works with the iPhone, iPad and iPod as well as most Android devices. It costs about $35.

Eager to hear the latest news report? You can catch the news on your favorite FM station while showering with the ABCO Tech Bluetooth Shower Speaker Auto FM Shower Radio. Designed with a swivel hanger hook, the waterproof speaker can be placed on a showerhead, a curtain rod or a towel hook. Depending on your preference, it can be set to broadcast radio stations on the 88.0 to 108.0 FM dial, or stream music from a connected Bluetooth device. Thanks to its built-in microphone, the speaker also can handle phone calls should you feel the need to take a call while in the shower. Priced at about $35, the speaker has a built-in battery that can be recharged via the included USB cable.

Tired of digging through your bag to find the right cable for the right device? Tego Power's TrioCable can streamline the hunt. Designed with three charging tips, the tangle-free cable has connections for Micro USB, Apple Lightning and Apple 30-pin devices. Available in aqua, black and white, it costs about $20.

A line of colorful battery packs from Neptor can brighten your space while also juicing up your favorite devices. Available in vivid orange, red, purple, green and blue with matching USB charging cords, the NP056K Portable Battery Pack comes with a lithium polymer battery that can deliver more than 500 recharges. A model with a 5600 mAh Dual Port Portable Battery and an LED Flashlight and Battery Indicator costs about $50.